Value statement

The University of Michigan, the Michigan Institute for Research in Astrophysics (MIRA), and the Departments of Astronomy and Statistics all value diversity, equity, and inclusion as necessary components of achieving scientific excellence. As hosts for this meeting, we would like to invite our participants to join us in promoting behavior in line with these values. In particular, we would like to make sure that we are inclusive in our general practices and able to provide reasonable accommodations that facilitate full engagement from all participants. We will not tolerate inappropriate behavior directed toward, nor originating from, meeting attendees.

Inclusion

Harassment, bullying, and intimidation of any sort will not be tolerated. This includes the use of any offensive language or imagery in any meeting venue. If a complaint is received, or the organizers notice inappropriate conduct, we will take these matters seriously and respond as rapidly as possible. Remember that the intent of actions is not as important as the impact of those actions on others. Consequences can range from a simple warning to immediate ejection from the meeting, depending on the offense. While we are not a AAS conference and not participating in their formal reporting process, our code of conduct adheres to the definitions of harassment and discrimination listed here: https://aas.org/policies/anti-harassment-policy-aas-division-meetings-activities. Likewise we also affirm the AAS code of ethics: https://aas.org/ethics

If in doubt about whether something is inappropriate, just ask! We are happy to provide education and guidance as to how to behave in line with our values. We are also receptive to any feedback about how we ourselves can do better.

We also request that people try to pay attention to the power dynamics in the rooms, especially during discussions and workshopping. Let’s make sure our more junior members are able to have their contributions heard!

Accessibility

The meeting will take place in rooms on the 3rd floor of West Hall. There is an elevator to this floor and single-occupancy restrooms that are accessible and gender neutral. (At a later point we will provide a map of the building.)

Presenters are encouraged to make their figures colorblind friendly to the extent possible, as well as using large, easy-to-read fonts, etc. to enable easier viewing for all participants.

We can arrange ASL interpretation if given advance notice of its need. Other reasonable accommodations are also possible; please contact us with any requests.

Additional resources and contacts

We may add to this page as we develop the website. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact one or both of us:

• Emily Rauscher (erausche@umich.edu)
  chair of SOC; chair of Astronomy’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee
• Stacy Tiburzi (stibu@umich.edu)
  MIRA administrator; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion staff advocate